We all have responsibilities for a world where peace and democracy prevail, people live in equal conditions and we all proceed together without leaving anyone behind. I think every individual and every institution should be thinking; "What can I give back to society, our country, humanity?" and should make every effort for this purpose. Aydın Doğan Foundation is aware of this important responsibility and has been carrying out its activities for 25 years to benefit society and the people both socially and from a welfare perspective, in many various fields such as education, culture, arts, and sports.

Our Foundation, which embraces social unity and helping one another as a community as its most important values, has touched thousands of lives in the areas it has focused on since its establishment; and made its efforts and successes visible to all community members. All the efforts and contributions of the Aydın Doğan Foundation are valuable, but the ones closest to my heart are those related to girls' education. We have initiated the establishment of student dormitories all around Anatolia where female students can stay. Thanks to these beautiful and safe dormitories, families sent their daughters to school with peace of mind; ensuring that these children continued their education. We also invite female students to Istanbul every year as our guests. This way, some of them see the sea for the first time in their lives, get to know Istanbul, and widen their perspective of life.

I care deeply about girls becoming educated women and participating in working life. It is extremely important for women to be included in all areas of life and to take the position they deserve in society. As a mother of four girls, when I was raising my children, I always told them: "You will learn to stand on your own feet and you will work hard." Since women are also responsible for taking care of the home, it is harder for women; it requires a great devotion. Women are born with the right to an equal, free and dignified life. According to our legal system, everyone is equal before the law. But this equality must be actively ensured, and women must have the power to stand on their own two feet. That is why the work of our Foundation that empowers women and children is of great importance.

Aydın Doğan Foundation has positively changed and impacted the lives of thousands of women and girls in 25 years. I raised my daughters the best way that I could, and it makes me very happy to raise thousands of female students just like them; as individuals who are beneficial to society. I sincerely hope that the Aydın Doğan Foundation will continue to work to support all disadvantaged groups in society, especially our young girls, for many years to come.

Best regards,

Sema DOĞAN
Honorary Vice President